Don't scratch. Scratching leads to more
itching and may cause a skin infection to develop. Cut nails short or wear cotton gloves at night
to prevent scratching. Put mittens or cotton socks on the hands of babies and
young children to prevent scratching.

Over-the-counter medicines for itching

If home
treatment doesn't relieve the itching, you may want to try taking an
over-the-counter medicine.

Try a nonprescription 1% hydrocortisone cream for small itchy areas.

Use only a tiny amount of cream on the face or genitals.

If itching is severe, your doctor may prescribe a stronger cream.

Note: Don't use the
cream on children younger than age 2 unless your doctor tells you to. Don't
use it in the rectal or vaginal area in children younger than age 12 unless your
doctor tells you to.

Calamine lotion may help dry out itchy, oozing
blisters.

Oral
antihistamines, like diphenhydramine (such as Benadryl) or chlorpheniramine (such as Chlor-Trimeton), may
relieve the itching, but they also can cause drowsiness. Don't give
antihistamines to your child unless you've checked with the doctor first.

Read and follow any warnings on the label.

Avoid applying antihistamine, such as Benadryl cream, spray, or
gel, or Caladryl lotion, to the skin. These products may further irritate your
skin. Also, it is more difficult to control the dosage of medicine that is
absorbed through the skin.

If the itching is severe and it interferes with sleep or other activities for more than 2 days, call your doctor to discuss your symptoms.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the
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